B-CU interim leader says students come first

DAYTONA BEACH -- The new interim president of Bethune-Cookman University introduced himself to community, university employees and students Tuesday by reading a scripture.

He ended his talk also by speaking about God and faith.

Edison Jackson, 69, who was named the interim president last week and will start Monday, described his work routine as getting up early, praying and reading scripture. When he arrives in the office, he said he will pray again. "You have to come to work with goodness," he told those gathered at a reception in his honor at the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center. "If people don't feel good about themselves, it is hard for them to give to the students. They are the reason why we are here." The first day students arrive on campus, the seasoned college president and administrator said, "We have to treat them like they are millionaires."

Jackson succeeds Trudie Kibbe Reed, who is retiring on Sunday after eight years as the fifth president and the second woman leader after founder Mary McLeod Bethune.

Board chairman Larry Handfield, a Miami attorney and alumnus, said a search committee will continue looking for a president, but it "may take up to a year." He said Jackson's vision, strong track record and being a "student-centered person" and engaging the community is what attracted the board to him.

Jackson has a long history in higher education, serving as president for 20 years of Medgar Evers College, which is one of 23 colleges in the City University of New York system, before retiring in 2009.

Jackson, who received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Howard University, a doctorate from Rutgers University and a master of divinity from New York Theological Seminary, also served as president for four years of Compton Community College in Compton, Calif. He has served in various positions in higher education for more than 40 years, including as an instructor, dean of student affairs and vice president for student affairs.

Handfield pointed to Jackson's dramatically changing Medgar Evers College from tripling enrollment to constructing new buildings and raising almost half a billion dollars. He said Jackson is not going to be a caretaker but "he has an opportunity to showcase his vision and continue moving this institution to a higher level." Handfield said Jackson not only has a "love for students" but for the "common man" -- the janitor and the secretary.

Jackson, who grew up in Virginia in a large family and is moving to the area with his wife, told faculty and staff not to be surprised to see him sitting in the classroom and walking the campus. He plans to do a lot of studying and listening.

"I did not come here to tear down but to build up," he said. "This is a great institution." He told staff they, too, most believe in the university and stressed he will not tolerate gossiping.

"Gossip is a heavy spirit. It will destroy," Jackson said. "Don't bring any gossip in my office. If you bring it, I will put you out."

Jackson said it's important the community also feel a part of the university. He said the "university is an anchor in our community" and a "resource."

Reed said the "entire campus is ready to greet and welcome (Jackson) with open arms."

"I think it will be a wonderful transition," she said.

Deborah Freckleton, Bethune-Cookman faculty association president, said she is thrilled and excited with Jackson, who she added "is a blessing to us."

Joyce Cusack, county councilwoman and board trustee who is on the search committee, said the university "is in good hands" so "we can do this (search) with time on our side."

Evelyn Bethune, granddaughter of university founder Mary McLeod Bethune, likes that Jackson is "community-oriented" so he can strengthen the university's relationship with the community. She also likes his faith, which was of great importance, she said, to her grandmother.

Carmen Oliver Williamson, president of the university's Volusia County alumni chapter, said she was impressed with Jackson's "compassion and interest for young people."

Senior Alvin Miller, 23, of Atlanta and a music education major, also liked that Jackson was "enthusiastic about the student body."

"He's going to bring new vision and new opportunities," Miller said.

-----

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.